Two further suspected cases of monkeypox have been identified in Kent - but there are hopes the national infection rate may now be plateauing.

The latest reported infections - one in Canterbury and the other in Folkestone - are among 53 recorded across the country in the week ending last Sunday.

As of Monday, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) announced there were 3,017 confirmed and highly probable cases of monkeypox in the UK.

UKHSA says the virus - which is related to smallpox and has now been found in about 80 countries globally - continues to be transmitted primarily in sexual networks of gay, bisexual or other men who have sex with men (GBMSM).

The median age of confirmed cases in the UK was 37.

"While the most recent data suggests the growth of the outbreak has slowed, we cannot be complacent," Dr Meera Chand, director of clinical and emerging infections at the UKHSA, said last week.

"Be vigilant of and check yourself for monkeypox symptoms, including rashes and blisters.

"If you are concerned that you may have monkeypox symptoms, take a break from events, meeting with friends or having sexual contact. Instead, stay at home and contact 111 or your local sexual health service for advice.

"The smallpox vaccine is being offered to individuals at higher risk of coming into contact with monkeypox in order to offer them protection and to reduce the spread of disease."

Monkeypox infection is usually a self-limiting illness and most people recover within several weeks.

However, severe illness can occur in some individuals.